Self-Guided Walking Tour of Memphis: Blues, BBQ & Brews

Key facts

What's included

Itinerary

1. Stop 1 Pass by

   Begin your tour outside Central Station Memphis, a historic trolley station in the South Main Arts District, transformed from a train station to a hotel.

2. Stop 2 Pass by

   Pass by Earnestine & Hazel's, a colorful spot with a storied past as a church, store, pharmacy, and brothel, now a lively club.

3. Stop 3 Pass by

   See The Arcade Restaurant, a classic diner known for its retro charm and tasty food, a true piece of Memphis culinary history.

4. Stop 4 Pass by

   View the 1866 Memphis Historic Marker, highlighting key moments in the city’s past.

5. Stop 5 Pass by

   Pass the Lorraine Motel, site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, now home to the National Civil Rights Museum.

6. Stop 6 Pass by

   Explore the National Civil Rights Museum housed in the Lorraine Motel, with exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement.

7. Stop 7 Pass by

   Catch a glimpse of the Blues Hall of Fame Museum, celebrating Memphis’s deep blues roots.

8. Stop 8 Pass by

   Admire the 'I am a Man' mural, a powerful symbol of Memphis’s African American history and struggles.

9. Stop 9 Pass by

   Pass Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, a local favorite for its mouthwatering fried chicken.

10. Stop 10 Pass by

    See the African Americans from Memphis mural, celebrating the community’s contributions.

11. Stop 11 Pass by

    Pass by the Orpheum Theatre, a historic venue renowned for its architecture and performances.

12. Stop 12 Pass by

    Explore Beale Street Entertainment District, the heart of Memphis blues and live music.

13. Stop 13 Pass by

    Pass Silky O'Sullivan's, known for its lively atmosphere and the famous Irish diving goats.

14. Stop 14 Pass by

    See The Peabody Memphis, a historic and luxurious hotel symbolizing Memphis’s elegance.

15. Stop 15 Pass by

    Walk through General Washburn's Escape Alley, one of Memphis’s many intriguing hidden alleys.

16. Stop 16 Pass by

    Pass Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous, famous for its barbecue and welcoming vibe.

17. Stop 17 Pass by

    View the Sterick Building, an architectural landmark once dominating Memphis’s skyline.

18. Stop 18 Pass by

    See Court Square Park, a peaceful spot in downtown Memphis for a quick rest.

19. Stop 19 Pass by

    Pass Memphis City Hall, a historic government building with distinctive architecture.

20. Stop 20 Pass by

    Visit the Tennessee Welcome Center, a helpful stop for exploring more of the state’s attractions.

21. Stop 21 Pass by

    End your tour near The Pyramid, an iconic Memphis landmark overlooking the Mississippi River.

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the starting point

The tour begins at Memphis Central Station, accessible via trolley or walking from the corner of South Main Street and St. Paul Avenue. You can also enter the address 545 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103 into your GPS for easy navigation.

Cancellation & confirmation